Minnesota Department of Transportation

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Project development

Engineering process | Planning

Project Management

Purpose

Project management is a process of leading a team and stakeholders in completing an identified project within the budget provided and at a specified time.

When to use this subject

Project management is an integral part of delivering any MnDOT project. 

For general information, see the other guidance page and/or contact the individuals on the contacts page. For specific information, contact your district project management lead.

How this subject fits into the overall project development process

The three primary constraints in project management at MnDOT are scope, schedule and budget. The project is typically defined (scoped) at the beginning of the development process, a timeline is specified for delivering the project (schedule), and a budget is identified, based on the estimated cost of the scoped work and identified risks (budget).

Project management is a vital part of the project development process. It begins at scoping, where you develop and define the parameters of the project. During the planning phase, the project manager and project team define and understand the project scope, schedule, budget, risks, and resources. As you implement your plan, the project manager is responsible for making informed decisions, gaining management support, and dealing with the unexpected.

Communication between the project manager, project team and stakeholders is an important component to delivering a successful project.

Organizations involved

The individuals and groups with whom you interact varies depending on the size, type, and location of the project you are managing.

  • MnDOT

  • FHWA
  • Local agencies (e.g. counties, cities, watershed agency)
  • Various state agencies (e.g., Minnesota DNR)
  • Other stakeholders, such as community members, local businesses and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)